Banjul, Gambia
As the capital city of Gambia, Banjul has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. The city is located on an island where the Gambia River estuary meets the Atlantic Ocean and its warm climate and vibrant yet relaxing atmosphere attracts thousands of tourists every year, making it one of West Africa’s busiest holiday resorts. Banjul is one of Africa’s smallest cities, with a population of only 40,000, but is quickly becoming a hotspot for tourists from Britain and Europe.
Sightseeing in Banjul
Banjul is well known for its creeks and waterways and taking a wooden boat (or pirogue) for a ride down one of the city’s many streams can be both peaceful and exhilarating. The water can be a captivating sight when it is filled with dense mangroves, fish and other aquatic creatures. Aside from Banjula’s natural wonders, the city also contains many other sightseeing opportunities.
The Gambia National Museum
The Gambia National Museum is an essential stop for people who are looking to uncover details and information about culture and heritage of the Gambian nation. The museum is home to a wide range of historical artefacts from Gambian history relating to sport, art, politics, religion and technology. Talks and lectures are available at the museum and photography is permitted throughout.
African Heritage Centre
The African Heritage centre is a very popular museum and art gallery situated in the city of Banjul. The centre houses a range of African statues and artwork that has been preserved and displayed for the public to view.
MacCarthy Square
MacCarthy Square is an excellent and attractive part of Bajul, littered with stunning 19th century architecture. The site contains a nearby war memorial and fountain constructed to commemorate the coronation of King George VI back in 1937. The square also has a fun-filled play area to keep the children entertained.
Shopping in Banjul
The best place to begin your shopping experience in is Albert Market and the surrounding area. Around this area you can find all sorts of different items available for purchase such as fruits, vegetables, household items, jewellery, clothes, shoes and local arts and crafts. Bargaining and haggling is actively encouraged on the markets in Banjul so try to get the price of your purchases down as much as possible. You may find that you can purchase items for a fraction of the price that you would pay at home.
Eating out in Banjul
As a city on the coastline, Banjul’s most popular and abundant dish is seafood. Excellent local seafood restaurants include Michel’s Seafood Bar, close to Independence Road, and Radio Sud Beach Bar. Authentic Gambian cuisine can also be found across the city in cafes and restaurants with welcoming atmospheres. Domoda, Okra, Chere and Yassa are amongst the local favourites and can be found all over the city. However, people who are less inclined to try the local cuisine will be pleased to know that there are plenty of fast food outlets and restaurants serving common western meals.